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Biography
Mary, Queen of Scots: Heroine or Harlot
She became queen in her own right as an infant. She married the heir to the French throne and became a queen through marriage. Beautiful, accomplished and fated for an early violent death, Mary Queen of Scots stood at the epicenter of the 16th century religious wars between Catholicism and Protestantism. Mary and her supporters thought that she had the right to the English throne, not Elizabeth I, whom Roman Catholics viewed as the illegitimate daughter of Henry VIII. But Mary's son, James, would unite the two crowns after the demise of the royal queens. Mary Queen of Scots: Heroine or Harlot would be useful for classes on European History, Royal History, Geography and Religion. It is appropriate for middle school and high school.
Objectives: Students will learn of the succession crisis of the Scottish and English thrones in the 16th century. They will explore the religious wars of the era and the role of religion in the politics of the era.
National Standards: Mary Queen of Scots: Heroine or Harlot fulfills the following National Standards for History for grades 5-12: chronological thinking, historical comprehension, historical analysis and interpretations, and historical research capabilities for World History era 6.
Mary's life was one of extremes. What were some of these extremes? Why was her life so varied?
Mary was born into royal life in the 16th century. Describe the world she was born into. How did life differ for royalty, aristocrats and common people?
Scotland, France and England were monarchies in the 16th century. What is a monarchy? How does this form of government differ from a democracy?
Discuss the role of religion in Mary's life.
Even as an infant, many sought Mary as a marriage partner for their sons. Why was she so desirable as a marriage partner? Would you describe Mary as a pawn?
Why did England and Scotland go to war over Mary's future?
Although Mary's adulthood was riddled with political intrigue and strife, her childhood was a peaceful one. Describe Mary's idyllic childhood.
Who did Mary marry as a young girl? Why?
Mary was Queen of Scotland, but many believed her to be the true heir to the English throne as well. Why?
What is fate? Discuss the role of fate in Mary's life. What is the role of fate in your life?
What problems did Mary face when she returned to Scotland after the death of her first husband?
Why was Mary's second husband, Lord Darnley, murdered?
Why did Queen Elizabeth of England behead Mary Queen of Scots?
Extended Activities
Research Mary Queen of Scots' genealogy and create her family tree.
Research the life of Mary's son James and use your data to create a timeline of the important events in his life.
Primary Sources
Dundrennan, May 15, 1568
To the high and mighty Prince, Elizabeth-
You are not ignorant, my dearest sister, of great part of my misfortunes, but these which
induce me to write at present, have happened too recently yet to have reached your ears. I must therefore acquaint you as briefly as I can, that some of my subjects whom I most
confided in, and had raised to the highest pitch of honour, have taken up arms against me,
and treated me with the utmost indignity. By unexpected means, the Almighty Disposer of all things delivered me from the cruel imprisonment I underwent.
But I have since lost a battle, in which most of those who preserved their loyal integrity fell before my eyes. I am now forced out of my kingdom, and driven to such straits that, next to God, I have no hope but in your goodness. I beseech you therefore, my dearest sister, that I may be conducted to your presence, that I may acquaint you with all my affairs.
In the meantime, I beseech God to grant you all heavenly benedictions, and to me patience and consolation, which last I hope and pray to obtain by your means.
To remind you of the reasons I have to depend on England, I send back to its Queen this
token, the jewel of her promised friendship and assistance.
Your affectionate sister,
Marie
